Bhutan

Abstract

The Kingdom of Bhutan is a landlocked country that depends on the generation of hydropower to boost its economy. Hydropower contributes about a fifth of Bhutan’s gross domestic product. Bhutan is currently one of the fastest growing economies in South Asia, and has recently made significant progress on poverty reduction. Growth averaged 7.6% over the past 3 decades, and poverty was cut roughly in half between 2007 and 2012. Yet despite solid growth and strong socioeconomic advances, the challenge remains for Bhutan to expand its economic base and make growth more inclusive, especially for unemployed youth and women. Developing a vibrant private sector is key to diversifying Bhutan’s economy and creating a more balanced, broadbased, and job-creating growth.